How to Cook Spider Crabs

Spider crabs can refer to a variety of long-legged crabs, including the Japanese spider crab -- the largest crab in the world. However, while giant spider crabs are not the usual ones sold in grocery stores, spider crabs are known for their sweet flesh and spindly legs. They are easy to cook and prepare within minutes, and the cooking method varies on taste. Choose female crabs for finer, sweeter meat, although males tend to be heartier.

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Things You'll Need

2 lb. spider crabs, fresh, cleaned

Large saucepan

2 tbsp. salt

1 tbsp. vinegar

Small hammer

Rinse the crabs under running water to ensure anything remaining in the crab's cavity is removed.

Fill the large saucepan with water and add the salt and vinegar.

Place the saucepan on the stove and turn the burner to high. Bring the water to a rolling boil.

Drop the crabs into the saucepan and bring it back to a boil.

Cook the crabs for 20 minutes, as soon as the water comes to a rolling boil again.